Dhiraj Bathija's mantra for success: Stay true to yourself

At 32, Dhiraj Bathija, Managing Director, Heel & Buckle, sports the physique to carry off any trend in the book. But he admits, he is not comfortable experimenting with clothes. He seeks comfort in classic cuts and styles, and is known to putting his fashionable foot forward. He talks to ET-Panache about his style quotient:

My sense of style

Casual, understated elegance.

Dos and don'ts

For me, the biggest sartorial mistake is flashy, ostentatious dressing. Be it printed shirts or clothing that announce the brand loudly — it is at odds with my style philosophy. Wellironed shirts, comfortable clothing and a style statement that exudes confidence, is more my style.

Work and after-work

When it comes to work wear, I would safely place my bet on a Thomas Pink shirt and a nice pair of black oxfords from Heel & Buckle. A well-worn pair of denim jeans and a white shirt are ideal for after hours.

Footwear boo-boos to avoid

Trainers (sneakers) while going out to a formal event. Unpolished shoes, especially when it comes to darker oxfords or derbies, and not coordinating the colour of shoes with that of the belt are grave errors.

Must-have shoes

A pair of black oxfords, a pair of tan derbies, a pair of patent tux edition classics, a pair of casual loafers or moccasins and a pair of double monks should take you through every occasion.

His list of best-dressed men

Omar Abdullah and Christopher Bailey are always seen sporting well-tailored suits or looking dapper in the finest linens.

A style tip to bald men

Avoid the toupee and stay true to yourself.